There are many reasons patients may be fearful of dental care. It may be from a previous unpleasant experience, fear of the unknown, or even a strong gag reflex. This anxiety can prevent them from receiving critical treatment that they need for the health of their mouth. With sedation, practices like the Smile Center can offer patients in Buffalo, NY the ability to be at ease during appointments.
At our office, one option is enteral or oral conscious sedation, which relaxes patients with an oral medication. Patients are given instructions to take the sedative at a predetermined time before coming in for their appointment. (Usually thirty minutes to one hour). Because the sedative is taken at home, patients will need to secure a ride to and from their appointment. By the time patients arrive at our office for treatment, they are relaxed and calm. Oral sedation allows the patient to remain conscious, able to answer questions and follow simple instructions. After treatment, patients will be driven home to rest. Patients will typically have little to no recollection of the procedure.
Oral sedation is an excellent option for patients who need extensive dental work and may be facing several hours in the dental chair. Sedation is often recommended for patients receiving implants, full smile makeovers, or other lengthy treatments.
At Smile Center, we understand that fear of the dentist can keep you from receiving the care you need. Patients who have dental anxiety are less likely to call and make an appointment when they suspect they have a dental issue.
If you are fearful of the dentist or have anxiety that has kept you from making an appointment, call us today at 716-634-4090 to learn more about how sedation can help you take your oral health back into your own hands.